Symbolic Design

  • Symbolic design is very common in many works of art. However, in Clan Unity, Dempsey Bob incorporates nine symbolic things in the sculpture, and each part has its unique meaning. Some of these symbolic designs represent the native groups and people, and some also carry the wishes and ideas from the artist. Every design is very ingenious and meaningful, all of them make this artwork more worthy to study.

Click left or right to see the symbolism in more detail

The Orca, the Wolf, the Raven, and the Eagle

On the top, left and right sides of the artwork, Dempsey Bob designed the Orca, the Wolf, the Raven, and the Eagle. They repectively symbolize the four main native groups in Northwest Coast. The artist’s integration of these elements into the one artwork also represents the unity and integrity of culture.

The Female and the Male

Thefemale is in front of the eagle, and the male is between the Raven and the Aagle. The designs in these two places symbolize the people.

The Rainbow

The Bentwood Box

The Sun

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